Organic Cookies

Why we think they're healthy: Put an organic label on anything, and most consumers immediately think it’s healthier. In one study, 115 people were asked to rate the taste and caloric content of regular vs. organic cookies, not knowing that the researchers used regular nonorganic cookies for both groups. Consumers rated the cookies labeled “organic” as more appetizing and lower in fat, even though the two cookies were identical. The organic label not only affects our taste perception but our wallets as well. Participants of the study said that they were willing to shell out 25% more to buy them.

Why they're not: Junk food is junk food, organic or not. Instead of high-fructose corn syrup and partially hydrogenated vegetable oil, organic junk food will use organic sugar and organic vegetable oil. The difference may sound significant, but take a look at the nutrient content.